Airlink

Airlink stands as a premier independent airline in Southern Africa, serving as a vital bridge between bustling metropolitan hubs and some of the continent's most remote and pristine destinations. Since distinguishing itself as a standalone carrier, it has redefined regional air travel with a strong emphasis on punctuality, service excellence, and expansive connectivity. Whether travelers are embarking on a business trip to a capital city or seeking a safari adventure in the bush, Airlink provides a reliable and comfortable journey across a vast network.

History and Overview
Founded in 1992, Airlink has grown into South Africa’s largest independent regional airline. While it historically operated as a franchisee, it successfully relaunched as a fully independent brand in 2020. The airline is renowned for its ability to connect smaller towns and regional airports to major global hubs, facilitating seamless travel for international and local passengers alike.

Extensive Regional Network
From its primary base in Johannesburg, the airline operates a dense network of routes. It frequently connects passengers to major South African cities like Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha. Beyond domestic borders, Airlink serves as a gateway to the wider Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, with popular routes to Windhoek, Harare, Gaborone, Maputo, and Lusaka. This extensive reach makes it an essential carrier for exploring the diversity of the subcontinent.

Fleet and Comfort
Airlink operates a modern and versatile fleet comprised primarily of Embraer regional jets, including the E-Jet series (E190 and E170) and ERJ models. These aircraft are selected specifically for their ability to service both short regional hops and longer flights with efficiency. Passengers often appreciate the comfortable cabin configuration, which typically features a two-by-two seating arrangement, eliminating the middle seat and offering generous legroom.

Safety and Awards
Safety is a core value for the company, which maintains a stellar safety record and is accredited by the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA). The airline has consistently been recognized for its operational reliability and on-time performance, frequently earning accolades as one of the most punctual carriers in the South African aviation sector.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates looking to reach Airlink should note that the airline does not currently maintain a physical office or dedicated customer service center within the UAE. As a South African regional carrier, Airlink operates primarily from its hub in Johannesburg. For bookings and inquiries, passengers in the UAE are advised to use the airline's digital platforms or contact the International Head Office in South Africa directly. Additionally, due to Airlink's extensive codeshare partnership with Emirates, travelers booking connecting flights via Dubai may also be able to manage certain itinerary details through their Emirates booking reference.

Official Website
For the most direct service, manage your bookings and check flight schedules on the official website:
www.flyairlink.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.flyairlink.com
• International Customer Service (Head Office): +27 11 451 7300 (International calling rates apply)
• Reservations & Ticketing: +27 11 451 7300
• Email Support: customercare@flyairlink.com
• Mobile App: FlyAirlink (Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store)

Social Media
Stay updated with the latest news and travel alerts through Airlink's official social media channels:

• Facebook: FlyAirlink
• X (Twitter): @Fly_Airlink
• Instagram: @fly_airlink
• LinkedIn: Airlink Airlines

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• Note: Airlink does not have a local ticket office or General Sales Agent (GSA) currently listed for the United Arab Emirates.
• For assistance with tickets booked as part of an itinerary with Emirates (e.g., Dubai to Southern Africa), please contact Emirates local support in the UAE for initial queries regarding the connection.
• For direct Airlink tickets, please use the international contact details provided above.

Customer Support Operating Hours
The International Call Center in South Africa operates during the following times (South African Standard Time, SAST):

• Monday to Friday: 07:30 – 17:00
• Weekends & Public Holidays: Limited availability; checking the website for self-service options is recommended.

Traveling with Airlink offers a straightforward and generous baggage policy designed to accommodate everything from business suits to safari gear. As the airline connects major hubs with remote lodges, understanding the specific requirements for different aircraft types—especially for bush destinations—is essential for a smooth journey.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Airlink facilitates a convenient travel experience by allowing passengers to keep essential items close at hand. The carry-on allowance depends on your cabin class, but all items must fit securely in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

• Economy Class: Passengers are entitled to one piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 8 kg, plus one slimline laptop bag.
• Business Class: Travelers enjoy an enhanced allowance of two pieces of cabin baggage, each weighing up to 8 kg, along with one slimline laptop bag.
• Dimensions: Each piece must not exceed the dimensions of 56cm x 36cm x 23cm.

Checked Baggage Policy
The airline generally applies a "Weight Concept," meaning you are not restricted by the number of bags, provided the total weight falls within your allowance. This is particularly helpful for tourists who might have multiple smaller bags.

• Economy Class: The standard free allowance is 20 kg.
• Business Class: The standard free allowance is 30 kg.
• Regional Exceptions: On certain routes connecting South Africa to neighbors like Zimbabwe and Zambia, allowances may be higher (often 30 kg for Economy). If you are flying to cities such as Bloemfontein or Maseru, the standard rules typically apply, but always check your ticket for route-specific benefits.
• Maximum Weight: For health and safety reasons, no single piece of checked luggage may exceed 32 kg.

Important Rule for Safari Destinations: Soft Bags Only
If your itinerary includes a "Lodge Link" flight to safari gateways like Skukuza, strict restrictions apply due to the smaller aircraft used (such as the Cessna Caravan). On these flights, rigid suitcases with hard shells are often not permitted because they cannot fit into the aircraft's compact cargo hold.

For these specific routes, you must use soft-sided, pliable bags. Hard-shell cases may be left behind or require repacking at the airport. If you are connecting from a major international flight with hard luggage, Airlink usually offers free storage facilities at key airports like Johannesburg for your excess or rigid bags while you visit the bush.

Sports Equipment and Special Items
South Africa is a prime destination for golf and outdoor sports, and Airlink supports this by offering an additional free allowance for sporting equipment.

• Sports Allowance: Passengers can often claim an additional 15 kg free of charge specifically for golf bags, diving gear, or fishing equipment. This is in addition to your standard checked allowance (e.g., 20kg standard + 15kg sports = 35kg total).
• Conditions: This benefit typically applies to Economy Class passengers and must be requested at least 72 hours before departure. Note that sports bags must contain only sports equipment; clothing and personal items should remain in your regular luggage.
• Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments can be carried as cabin baggage if they fit within the dimensions. Larger instruments like cellos must be checked in (suitably packed in hard cases) or may require booking an extra seat.

Excess Baggage and Prohibited Items
Should you exceed your weight allowance, excess baggage fees will be charged per kilogram. These rates vary between domestic and regional flights.

• Prohibited Items: For safety, flammable liquids, explosives, and sharp objects are banned from the cabin.
• Lithium Batteries: Loose lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked bags to prevent fire hazards.

Tips for Efficient Packing
To ensure a hassle-free check-in, weigh your bags at home or at your hotel before heading to the airport. If you are planning a multi-leg trip that includes both a city stay in Cape Town and a safari in the Kruger National Park area, consider bringing a foldable duffel bag. You can transfer your safari essentials into the soft bag for the bush flight and store your hard suitcase at the airport hub.

Traveling with pets on Airlink requires careful planning, as the airline prioritizes safety and strict adherence to regional regulations. Unlike many European or American carriers, Airlink has specific policies that differentiate significantly between domestic flights within South Africa and regional flights to neighboring countries. Whether you are relocating or taking a holiday with your furry companion, understanding these rules in advance is essential for a smooth journey.

In cabin (carry-on)

It is important to note that Airlink generally does not permit domestic pets (cats, dogs, or other emotional support animals) to travel in the passenger cabin. This space is strictly reserved for trained service animals assisting passengers with disabilities.

• Allowed pet types: Strictly limited to registered Service Animals (e.g., Guide Dogs for the blind, Hearing Dogs).
• Carrier dimensions: Service dogs do not require a carrier but must be harnessed. They must sit at the passenger's feet and cannot occupy a seat or obstruct the aisle.
• Maximum pet weight: There is no standard weight limit for service animals, provided they can be accommodated safely in the footwell.
• Documentation: Valid medical certificate proving the passenger's dependence on the animal and the animal's training certification are required.
• Booking: Must be arranged at least 72 hours before departure.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

For domestic flights strictly within South Africa (e.g., from Johannesburg to Cape Town), small to medium-sized pets can often travel as "checked baggage" (AVIH). This means they fly in the hold of the same aircraft as you but are checked in at the passenger terminal.

• Container requirements: Must be an IATA-approved rigid plastic or wooden crate. It must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and secure (metal bolts recommended). Wire cages or soft bags are not accepted.
• Size limits: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in a natural position.
• Weight limits: The combined weight of the pet and the crate must not exceed 32 kg. Animals exceeding this weight must travel as Manifest Cargo.
• Temperature restrictions: Airlink may refuse transport if extreme temperatures at departure or arrival airports pose a health risk to the animal.
• Booking: Space must be reserved via the reservations desk at least 72 hours prior to your flight.

As cargo (Manifest Cargo)

This option is the standard method for international travel and larger animals. It ensures pets are handled by specialized staff in a dedicated environment.

• When this option is required:
  • Mandatory for all Regional/International flights (e.g., flying to Windhoek, Harare, Gaborone, or Maputo).
  • Mandatory for any domestic pet shipment weighing over 32 kg.
  • Required for unaccompanied pets.
• Special requirements: Pets are lodged at the Cargo Terminal (not the passenger check-in counters). The cut-off time for acceptance is usually earlier than passenger flights.
• Booking procedure: Must be arranged directly through Airlink Cargo or a specialized pet travel agent at least 48 hours before departure.

Required documentation

Failure to present correct documents can result in the animal being denied travel. Ensure you have originals and copies of the following:

• Veterinary Health Certificate: A general certificate of good health issued by a vet (usually within 10 days of travel).
• Vaccination Record: Must show a valid Rabies vaccination administered more than 30 days but less than 12 months prior to travel.
• Movement Permits: Essential for cross-border regional flights (e.g., Veterinary Import Permits for the destination country).
• Microchip Certificate: Often required for identification verification.

Service costs

Costs for pet travel are not included in your ticket price and are calculated separately based on weight and route.

• Service Animals (Cabin): Typically carried free of charge when all medical requirements are met.
• Checked Baggage (Domestic): Charged as excess baggage based on the total weight (pet + crate). Charges apply per kilogram.
• Manifest Cargo: Charged according to current cargo rates, which may include handling fees and waybill charges. These rates are generally higher than excess baggage fees.

Preparation tips

• Crate acclimation: Let your pet get used to the travel crate weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4-6 hours before the flight. Do not feed them right before flying to avoid air sickness.
• Hydration: Attach a secure water bowl to the inside of the crate door. Freezing the water beforehand prevents spills during loading.
• No sedatives: IATA and Airlink strongly advise against sedating pets, as it can affect their breathing and blood pressure at high altitudes.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Certain "power breeds" or animals classified as aggressive may be restricted or require reinforced crates.
• Snub-nosed breeds: Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs) are at higher risk of respiratory distress. Airlink may have strict liability waivers or specific crate size requirements (one size larger) to ensure adequate airflow.
• Age limits: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 8 to 10 weeks old and weaned to travel.
• Pregnant animals: Females that are heavily pregnant are generally not accepted for travel.

Important: Animal travel regulations in Southern Africa can change due to health controls (e.g., Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks). Always contact Airlink Reservations or Airlink Cargo directly to confirm the latest requirements for your specific route before traveling.

Introduction
Airlink rewards its frequent travelers through its dedicated loyalty program, Skybucks. Launched to replace previous franchise-based schemes, Skybucks is a revenue-based program designed to be transparent and easy to use. Instead of calculating complex mileage charts, members earn rewards based on the monetary value of their ticket, which can then be used as a currency to pay for future travel.

Membership Tiers
Skybucks offers a tiered structure where your status is determined by the number of flight "sectors" (legs) you complete within a 12-month rolling period. Moving up the ranks unlocks progressively valuable perks.

• Blue Tier (Entry Level): The starting point for all members (less than 18 sectors). Members begin earning Skybucks immediately on eligible flights and can pool rewards with family.
• Red Tier (Frequent Flyer): Achieved after flying 18 to 34 sectors. Benefits typically include priority check-in counters and a higher percentage of Skybucks earned per flight.
• Emerald Tier (Premium): Awarded to travelers flying 35+ sectors. This elite level grants access to luxurious SLOW Lounges, priority boarding, and additional baggage allowances on select routes.
• Black Tier (Invitation Only): The most exclusive level for the airline's top flyers, offering bespoke service, guaranteed seat availability, and maximum earning potential.

Earning Skybucks
Unlike traditional mileage programs, earning Skybucks is tied directly to what you spend.

• Flights: You earn a percentage (up to 5% depending on your tier) of the base fare and fuel surcharge (YQ) on every ticket.
• Skybucks Club (Pooling): A standout feature is the ability to create a "Club" with up to eight family members or friends, allowing you to pool earned Skybucks into a single account for faster rewards.
• Sector Counts: While you earn currency based on spend, you advance through the tiers based on the number of flight sectors (individual flight legs) you complete.

Redeeming Rewards
The program focuses on flexibility, allowing travelers to use their rewards almost like cash.

• Flight Payments: Skybucks can be used to pay for full or partial airfares to any of Airlink’s destinations throughout Southern Africa.
• No Blackout Dates: Since rewards function as a form of payment, you can book any available seat without worrying about limited "award seat" inventory.
• Upgrades and Extras: Members can use their balance to pay for upgrades or other ancillary costs associated with their booking.
• Transferability: Rewards are transferable between members, making it easier to gift travel to friends or family.

Partners and Alliance Information
Airlink is an independent airline and is not a member of a global alliance like Star Alliance or Oneworld. However, it maintains robust partnerships that offer alternative earning options.

• Partner Programs: If you prefer earning miles with international carriers, Airlink flights are often eligible for accrual on United MileagePlus, Emirates Skywards, British Airways Executive Club, and Qatar Airways Privilege Club.
• Important Note: You generally must choose between earning Skybucks or partner miles for a specific flight; you cannot earn both simultaneously.

How to Join
Joining is free and digital-first. Travelers can enroll via the official Airlink website or the FlyAirlink mobile app. New members often receive a welcome bonus of Skybucks upon their first activity or registration period. Simply enter your membership number during booking to ensure your sectors and rewards are tracked automatically.

Airlink distinguishes itself from low-cost carriers by offering a premium, full-service experience on every flight. Whether you are hopping between South African cities or flying regionally to neighboring countries, the airline prioritizes passenger comfort with generous legroom, complimentary catering, and a focus on hospitality. The fleet’s configuration, primarily consisting of Embraer jets, ensures that there are no middle seats in Economy Class, guaranteeing every passenger either a window or an aisle seat.

Cabin Classes

Airlink offers two distinct classes of service, designed to meet the needs of both leisure travelers and business professionals.

Economy Class
Economy Class on Airlink is designed to be superior to standard regional offerings. Passengers enjoy a spacious cabin layout with a generous seat pitch, allowing for ample legroom even on short flights. The key advantage of the Embraer E-Jet fleet is the "two-by-two" seating arrangement, which eliminates the middle seat entirely.

• Seating: Ergonomically designed slimline seats with leather upholstery.
• Amenities: Onboard publication Skyways is available for reading pleasure.
• Convenience: Overhead bins are sized to accommodate standard carry-on roller bags (within specified dimensions).

Business Class
Available on select domestic and regional routes, Airlink’s Business Class (branded as Intra-African Business Class) provides an elevated level of privacy and comfort. This service is typically available on flights operated by the larger Embraer E-190 and E-170 jets connecting Johannesburg with key economic hubs like Cape Town, Durban, and regional capitals such as Windhoek, Harare, Lusaka, Maputo, and Gaborone.

• Seating: A comfortable "one-by-two" configuration on many aircraft ensures maximum personal space, with an expanded seat pitch of up to 36 inches.
• Priority Services: Includes dedicated check-in counters, priority boarding, and priority baggage handling.
• Lounge Access: Business Class ticket holders enjoy complimentary access to premium lounges at participating airports.

In-Flight Dining

Hospitality is a cornerstone of the Airlink experience. Unlike many short-haul carriers that charge for food, Airlink provides complimentary onboard catering to all passengers, regardless of ticket class.

• Economy Class: Depending on the flight duration and time of day, passengers are served a high-quality snack or a light meal (such as a fresh sandwich or wrap). This is accompanied by a selection of complimentary beverages, including tea, coffee, juices, soft drinks, and a choice of beer or wine (after 11:00 AM).
• Business Class: Travelers are treated to an enhanced dining experience featuring plated meals served on crockery, metal cutlery, and glassware. The beverage selection is more extensive, including premium wines and spirits.
• Dietary Requirements: Special meals (such as Kosher, Halal, or Vegetarian) can be requested on select flights, provided the request is made at least 72 hours prior to departure.

Airport Lounges

For Business Class passengers and top-tier Skybucks members (Emerald and Black status), the travel experience begins before boarding. Airlink partners with SLOW Lounges, widely regarded as some of the finest domestic lounges in South Africa.

These sanctuaries offer a quiet space to work or relax, featuring high-speed Wi-Fi, buffet dining, barista-made coffee, and private washrooms. Lounge access is available at major hubs including:

• O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) (Domestic and International Terminals)
• Cape Town International Airport (CPT) (Domestic and International Terminals)
• King Shaka International Airport (DUR) (Domestic Terminal)

Special Assistance

Airlink is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone. Dedicated services are available for passengers requiring extra care.

• Unaccompanied Minors: Children between the ages of 5 and 11 traveling alone can use the Unaccompanied Minor service. Ground staff will escort the child through security and to the aircraft, where cabin crew will supervise them until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination. This service must be booked in advance.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM): Wheelchair assistance and aid for passengers with sensory impairments can be arranged. It is essential to notify the airline at least 72 hours before your flight to ensure the necessary ground equipment (such as passenger aid units) is available, especially at smaller regional airports like Gqeberha or Bloemfontein.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant travelers are welcome up to 32 weeks without a certificate. From 32 to 36 weeks, a medical certificate is required. Travel is generally not permitted after 36 weeks for safety reasons.

Operating from its primary hub at Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport, Airlink connects travelers to a diverse network of cities and remote getaways. The airline specializes in linking the major economic centers of South Africa with smaller towns and regional capitals across the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This extensive reach makes it a convenient choice for passengers moving between bustling metropolises and pristine nature reserves.

Major South African Connections
The carrier offers high-frequency flights to South Africa’s key urban areas. The route between Johannesburg and Cape Town is the most prominent, serving both business and leisure travelers. Direct services also connect the hub to the coastal city of Durban and the historic port of Gqeberha. For those traveling to the interior, regular flights are available to Bloemfontein, Pietermaritzburg, Kimberley, and Polokwane. Additionally, the airline supports travel along the scenic Garden Route with flights to George, accessible directly from Cape Town.

Gateways to Safari and Nature
Uniquely positioned to serve the tourism sector, the airline provides direct access to some of the region's most famous wildlife destinations. Passengers can fly to Mbombela and Hoedspruit, which serve as primary gateways to the Lowveld's private game reserves. For the most seamless safari experience, the airline operates flights to Skukuza, allowing tourists to land within the Kruger National Park itself.

Regional Destinations
The network extends beyond domestic borders, offering vital links to neighboring countries for both commerce and exploration. Travelers can easily reach:

• Zimbabwe: Frequent flights connect to the capital, Harare, and the city of Bulawayo.
• Namibia: Services include flights to the capital, Windhoek (available from both Johannesburg and Cape Town), and the coastal harbor of Walvis Bay.
• Botswana: The airline flies directly to Gaborone.
• Mozambique: The vibrant coastal capital of Maputo is a regular destination.
• Zambia & Lesotho: The route map also features connections to Lusaka and the mountainous capital of Maseru.

Securing the best fares with Airlink is easier when you plan ahead. It is generally recommended to book your tickets at least three to four weeks in advance, as prices tend to increase closer to the departure date. For travelers with flexible schedules, flying mid-week often yields lower fares compared to weekends. To catch the latest offers, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or monitoring their social media channels, where flash sales for popular routes like the connection between Johannesburg and Cape Town are occasionally announced.

To ensure a smooth journey, take advantage of the online check-in service, which typically opens 24 hours before your flight. This feature allows you to confirm your presence and choose your seat from the comfort of your home or hotel. Using the Airlink mobile app adds another layer of convenience, enabling you to store mobile boarding passes and receive real-time notifications about your flight status. This is particularly useful when managing connections to regional hubs such as Harare or Windhoek.

Seat selection is an important part of the booking process, especially given the scenic nature of many Airlink destinations. As the airline operates regional jets, window seats can offer breathtaking views of the Southern African landscape, particularly on flights to safari gateways like Skukuza or coastal cities such as Gqeberha. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This essential step protects you against unforeseen events like cancellations or baggage delays, allowing you to explore destinations like Gaborone with complete peace of mind.

Founding and Early Years

Airlink was established in 1992, emerging from the acquisition of the liquidated Link Airways business. From its inception, the airline's founders, including current CEO Rodger Foster, envisioned a carrier that would serve smaller towns and regional centers that larger airlines often overlooked. Headquartered in Johannesburg, the company began operations with a modest fleet, focusing on reliability and building vital connections between South Africa's commercial hubs and outlying communities.

In 1997, Airlink entered a strategic franchise partnership with South African Airways (SAA). For over two decades, it operated as a feeder airline, flying under the "South African Airlink" brand and using the national carrier's flight codes. This relationship allowed Airlink to grow its network significantly, channeling passengers from international arrivals into a web of domestic and regional destinations. However, despite the branding alignment, Airlink remained a privately owned and independently managed entity throughout this period.

The Shift to Independence

A defining moment in the airline's history occurred in 2020. Following the restructuring of its franchise partner, Airlink made the bold decision to decouple and relaunch as a completely independent carrier. This marked the end of its use of the "SA" flight code and the adoption of its own "4Z" IATA designator. The airline introduced a distinctive new livery featuring the Sunbird, a symbol of its African heritage and agility, signaling its emergence as a standalone brand in the Southern African skies.

Fleet Evolution

Airlink’s fleet strategy has been central to its operational success. In its earlier years, the airline relied heavily on turboprop aircraft like the British Aerospace Jetstream 41, which were well-suited for short runways and lower passenger volumes. As demand grew, the carrier began a comprehensive fleet modernization program.

Today, the airline operates an all-jet fleet comprised primarily of Embraer aircraft, including the ERJ-135, ERJ-140, and the larger E-Jet series (E-170, E-190, and E-195). This transition to jet propulsion enhanced passenger comfort, reduced flight times, and increased cargo capacity. The fleet's versatility allows Airlink to serve a wide range of airports, from the hot and high altitude of Windhoek to the short, bush strips of safari gateways like Skukuza.

Strategic Expansions and Partnerships

Following its independence, Airlink aggressively expanded its route network to fill gaps left by other carriers. It solidified its position as a key player in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), increasing frequencies to capital cities such as Harare, Lusaka, Maputo, and Gaborone.

A notable historic milestone was the establishment of a scheduled commercial service to St. Helena Island in the South Atlantic Ocean. Airlink became the first airline to operate regular flights to this remote territory, overcoming significant logistical challenges and ending the island's centuries of isolation.

In recent years, the airline has shifted its partnership strategy from a single franchise agreement to a global interline and codeshare model. It has signed agreements with major international carriers—including Emirates, United Airlines, Qatar Airways, and British Airways—allowing travelers to book single-ticket itineraries from virtually anywhere in the world to Airlink’s vast regional network.

Recent Investments

Demonstrating its commitment to regional growth, Airlink acquired a 40% strategic equity holding in FlyNamibia in 2022. This investment was designed to accelerate Namibia’s post-pandemic recovery and enhance air connectivity within the country. By aligning operations, the two airlines have improved flight schedules and connectivity between Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Namibian destinations, further cementing Airlink's status as the premier regional connector in Southern Africa.